August 27, 2010

California moves forward toward establishing a health insurance exchange to be in compliance with the new federal health reform law.

The California state Senate has passed two bills that provide the mechanisms of the exchange. One bill, which is awaiting the Governor Schwarzenegger's signature, sets up an Internet-based exchange where consumers could compare health insurance plans.

The second bill, which now heads back to the Assembly for approval, outlines the role of the exchange. This bill also creates a California Health Trust Fund to finance the exchange. Both bills passed along party lines, with Republicans opposing.

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act requires state exchanges—where individuals and small businesses can purchase coverage—must be up and running by January 1, 2014.

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has not said whether he would sign the bills, but in April he support ed health reform, stating that he would “work with the federal government to get this done.”

To shop for affordable California Health Insurance visit QuoteBroker, an online shopping service that allows you to compare all major company's plans and services in minutes. It's free and simple to use.